Casualties unknown

Partial Power Loss During Takeoff Leads to Off-Airport Landing in Soybean Field (N5605J)

Park Forest, IL, US

On September 19, 1982, a Cessna 172 (registration N5605J) operated by Frankfort Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Park Forest, IL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot experienced a partial loss of power during the takeoff roll. With insufficient runway remaining to stop, the aircraft was maneuvered over an embankment but sustained damage upon landing in a soybean field.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported a partial loss of power while accelerating for takeoff. According to the pilot's account, the power loss occurred during the takeoff roll, leaving insufficient runway length to abort the departure. The pilot elected to continue, using the available airspeed to clear a three-foot embankment at the end of the runway.

Landing and Damage

The aircraft cleared the embankment but touched down in an adjacent soybean field. During the landing, the nose gear, right main landing gear, and right wing tip sustained damage. The aircraft came to rest in the field.

Post-Incident Examination

Following the event, an examination and engine run-up were conducted. No mechanical malfunctions or failures were identified during these checks. The cause of the reported partial power loss was not determined.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Sept 1982 Cessna 172 accident near Park Forest, IL?

A pilot experienced a partial loss of power during the takeoff roll. With insufficient runway remaining to stop, the aircraft was maneuvered over an embankment but sustained damage upon landing in a soybean field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Sept 1982 involved a Cessna 172, registration N5605J, operated by Frankfort Aviation, at Park Forest, IL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04411. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.